Conjoint Therapy: The Ultimate Team Approach
With Susan Malewicz, LCSW, CSAT, CASAC, & Susan Zola, LCSW, CSAT, CCPS
A Collaborative Healing Model for Couples Impacted by Betrayal Trauma
In this unique and highly specialized team model, both partners are our clients—and both of us are your therapists. With no favoritism, each of you receives experienced, balanced support as we guide you through the critical early stages of healing from infidelity and compulsive sexual behavior (CSBD/SA).
Both therapists are certified through APSATS and IITAP training, with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and couples in betrayal trauma and addiction recovery.
Step One: Getting Started Together
Initial 2-Hour Conjoint Session | $1500 total ($750 each)
- The four of us meet together for an extended session.
- You’ll share your individual histories, your relationship timeline, what brought you in, and your hopes for the road ahead.
- Together, we’ll assess next steps and co-create a Safety Plan, including any emergency disclosures that need to be addressed in session.
Step Two: Individual Work for Stabilization & Preparation
For the Betrayed Partner – with Susan Zola
Three Individual Sessions | $750 total ($250 per session)
- Grief and stabilization work
- PTSI screening and support
- Introduction to Wednesday support group and 12-step options
- Weekly resources: Discovery to Disclosure packets for in-between session work
For the Unfaithful Partner – with Susan Malewicz
Three Individual Sessions | $750 total ($250 per session)
- Shame reduction and personal history work
- SDI (Sexual Dependency Inventory) assessment
- Introduction to 12-step recovery and Wednesday meetings
- Begin 3-Circle Plan and preparation for three-part disclosure process
Step Three: Conjoint Recovery Check-Ins
Ongoing 2-Hour Conjoint Sessions | $1500 per session ($750 each)
Every fourth session, we come together as a team to:
- Share progress in recovery
- Conduct FANOS check-ins
- Problem-solve relational dynamics
- Strengthen empathy and communication skills
Step Four: Preparing for Full Therapeutic Disclosure
Three Individual Sessions Each | $1500 total ($750 each)
- Deepen individual work to reduce minimization and defensiveness
- Finalize preparation for Full Therapeutic Disclosure
Step Five: The Three-Part Disclosure Process
- Disclosure takes place over three separate days, usually scheduled on Fridays and/or Saturdays.
- Upon completion of the three-part disclosure and a passed polygraph (if used), the couple transitions into deeper relational repair work.
Six Months of Ongoing Support Post-Disclosure
- Weekly conjoint sessions
- Weekly individual sessions
- Scheduled on Fridays or weekends based on availability
Why This Model Matters
The first year after discovery is a critical window for healing. Our goal is to “first do no harm.” Unfortunately, therapists without training in CSBD/SA and betrayal trauma can unintentionally cause more damage, missing the nuance and vulnerability each partner is experiencing.
With our combined expertise, you are in safe, capable hands. We know this is grief. It’s the loss of trust, safety, and the story you thought you were living. Together, we help you walk the path of repair with dignity, skill, and support.
Price Total (Estimate: Subject to Change depending on the amount of sessions): $7,000.00
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why are there two therapists instead of one?
A: This healing model ensures that both partners receive specialized, unbiased care. We co-lead the process, balancing support and accountability in a way that a single therapist cannot.
Q: What if we’ve already had a disclosure?
A: We will assess whether the disclosure was therapeutic, complete, and safe. If not, we may guide you through a structured re-disclosure process.
Q: Do you work with couples virtually or in person?
A: We offer secure virtual sessions.
Q: What makes this approach different from traditional couples therapy?
A: Traditional therapy often misses the complex trauma responses involved in infidelity and addiction. Our model is trauma-informed, addiction-aware, and built specifically to reduce harm and promote true recovery.
Q: Why do you say this is grief work?
A: Betrayal trauma involves the loss of the relationship you believed you were in. Grieving this loss is essential to healing. It’s not just about restoring trust—it’s about rebuilding safety and identity.
